← Ingredient & E-number explorer

Typical source

Fatty acids (plant or animal)

Plain-language explanation

E473, or sucrose esters of fatty acids, is an emulsifier made by combining sugar (sucrose) with fatty acids, which can come from either plant or animal sources. Its halal status depends entirely on the origin of the fatty acids; if derived from plants, it is considered halal, but if from non-halal animals like pork, it is haram. Major halal certification bodies like JAKIM, MUI, and MUIS require verification of the source to ensure it is plant-based or halal-certified animal fat. Always check for halal certification to confirm its compliance.